New York Drops Download Tax

Be relieved, citizen of the digital world: Lawmakers in the State of New York have decided to drop a gout of new taxes they were considering forcing on citizens. Among the state and local fees New Yorkers won't be paying: A tax on "prewritten software, digital audio, audio-visual and text files, digital photographs, games and other electronically delivered entertainment services," which means extra dough for iTunes purchases, game DLC, and even X-rated Website subscriptions!

Other New York taxes that will not happen: Taxes on sugar infested soda, movie tickets, live theater tickets, concerts, golf, skiing, and bowlin -- among many other fun activities.

Who can you thank you for the decision? The Federal Government, of course. New York was considering the taxes because the state was in the financial red zone and needed capital, quick. But now a bunch of bailout bucks are headed toward The Empire State, so New Yorkers can breathe easily and light cigars with hundred dollar bills again.

“The proposed tax increases we are eliminating today were only put forward as a last resort when the deficit ballooned to an unprecedented level,” said Governor Paterson during an Albany news briefing. “Now that enhanced federal funding is available, our highest priority must be to provide targeted relief to those who need it most during this economic crisis — average New Yorkers struggling to make ends meet.”